I am honoured to have been appointed as an Advisory Board Member and Collaborator for the DSTI/NRF–Sasol Research Chair in Development Studies, led by Prof Thanyani Madzivhandila at the University of Limpopo in South Africa.

I was privileged to be invited to join the Research Chair application during its development, and it is deeply rewarding to see the proposal successfully awarded. The establishment of this Chair marks a landmark achievement for the University of Limpopo and the Turfloop Graduate School of Leadership, representing the first South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) Chair awarded within the Faculty. It reflects the University’s growing research excellence and commitment to producing scholarship that addresses pressing societal challenges.

As part of the Advisory Board, I look forward to contributing to the Chair’s vision through postgraduate mentorship, research quality assurance, science communication, academic writing, and the strengthening of research impact beyond academia. Through my company Ulwazi Scientific Communications and STEM Research, I remain committed to building research capacity, supporting scholars across disciplines, and translating research into knowledge that informs policy, practice, and sustainable development.

This appointment also reflects the value of interdisciplinary collaboration. While my academic training is in ocean biogeochemistry, my work has increasingly expanded into research capacity development, scientific communication, mentorship, and supporting researchers across diverse disciplines. These experiences have reinforced my belief that impactful research depends not only on scientific excellence but also on strong collaboration, effective communication, and investing in the next generation of researchers.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Prof Thanyani Madzivhandila for the opportunity to contribute to this important national initiative, and to Programme Director, Mnqobi Banele Njoko, whose invitation to join the Research Chair application made this journey possible. I look forward to working alongside colleagues to strengthen research excellence, support postgraduate researchers, and contribute to knowledge that creates lasting impact for communities in South Africa and beyond. This appointment is both an honour and a responsibility. I am excited for the work ahead and for the opportunity to contribute to a Research Chair dedicated to advancing research, developing future leaders, and driving meaningful societal impact.

Dr Kolisa Yola Sinyanya
Founder and Director
Ulwazi Scientific Communications and STEM Research